Holiday Lights on the Morehead City and Beaufort Waterfronts
Celebrate the holiday season at the Annual Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla, officially the Friends Holiday Flotilla, on Saturday, December 5, 2026.
Hosted by the Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum, this Crystal Coast holiday tradition sends yachts, sailboats, commercial vessels, and kayaks, all strung with holiday lights, from the Morehead City waterfront to Taylor’s Creek in Beaufort. Watching from public waterfront areas in both towns is free, and no ticket is needed.
Schedule & Route
5:30 pm: The lighted fleet begins its slow pass east along the Morehead City waterfront.
En route: Vessels round the south end of Radio Island and head into Bulkhead Channel.
About 6:30 pm: The fleet enters Taylor’s Creek and passes along Front Street in Beaufort, with the lights reflecting off the water.
Event Highlights
Lighted vessels: Boats of every size, from working vessels to kayaks, are decorated for the season. Vessels that continue down Taylor’s Creek toward the Beaufort Hotel are eligible for judging and prizes.
Two waterfronts: Watch the start in Morehead City or the finish along Beaufort’s Front Street
Free public viewing: Bring a blanket and a warm drink, and claim your spot along either waterfront.
Friends’ Flotilla Viewing Party (Members Only)
From 6:00–8:00 pm, the Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum host a members-only Viewing Party at Harborside Park Deck & Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center. It includes:
chili and comfort foods
a hot cocoa and cider bar, with spirited add-ins for adults
live holiday jazz
holiday photos with Nauti Santa
Capacity is limited, and advance tickets are required.
Event dates and information are subject to change without notice. Please visit the official event website for more information.
